ARTIST STATEMENT
The theme of identity and loss is explored in Work in Progress (2022) and Heartbreak Anniversary (2024). Work in Progress represents the reconstruction of self after being built on a poor foundation and falling apart due to grief after experiencing many losses. Loss of relationships, housing, identity, and overall stability. Heartbreak Anniversary is subsequently based on the aforementioned grief. Heartbreak Anniversary is a love letter and a reminder of the safety and solace that was cultivated within self during those difficult times.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
DeJa Jovon is a self-taught artist based in Chicago. She primarily works with acrylic and oil paints. Her work encompasses a surreal, eclectic flare that depicts her unique perception of intersectional experiences as a Black Queer woman. She is inspired by literature such as Audre Lorde’s Uses of the Erotic: The Erotic as Power, bell hooks All About Love, musical influences, and surreal artwork from Salvador Dali. DeJa uses vibrant, dreamlike colors to depict the darker sides of confronting our shadow selves and the use of black, white and symbols to represent various dichotomies She has participated in various shows throughout Chicago and San Francisco.
In addition, DeJa Jovon is a licensed therapist who received her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Adler University and certification in Sex Therapy with the Sexual Health Alliance. In addition, DeJa is the owner of Unladylike, LLC. Unladylike challenges societal norms deemed as “unladylike” by curating events focused on art, music, and mental/sexual wellness. DeJa Jovon has curated over 15 art exhibitions throughout Chicago including the annual UNLADYLIKE Art Exhibition.
© DeJa Jovon